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Nautical Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... nautical science, marine affairs, marine engineering, marine transportation, or other fields related to the position. For Marine Transportation Specialist positions, education obtained in a Federal ...

... science (minimum of two years programme) or Qualifications from a marine or nautical institution and relevant sea-going experience as a certificated ship's officer. * Membership of an appropriate ...

... nautical miles. From remote communities to contested logistics operations, our platforms unlock a ... Partner closely with Avionics, Propulsion, Flight Controls, and Structural design, Flight Sciences ...

Nautical Science information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$47.8K

$78K

How much do nautical science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for nautical science in California is $47,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is nautical science?

A Nautical Science job involves the study and application of navigation, ship operation, and maritime safety. Professionals in this field work as deck officers, navigating and managing vessels at sea. Their responsibilities include route planning, cargo handling, compliance with maritime regulations, and ensuring crew safety. These roles are crucial in the shipping, offshore, and marine industries. A career in Nautical Science typically starts with a cadetship and leads to higher ranks like Chief Officer or Captain.

What are some typical career paths for professionals with a background in nautical science?

Professionals with a background in Nautical Science often begin their careers as deck cadets or junior officers, gradually advancing to roles like Chief Officer, Captain (Master Mariner), or Harbor Pilot with further experience and certification. Many also move into shore-based positions such as ship management, marine surveying, port operations, or maritime education. Career progression is typically structured, with advancement dependent on sea service, completing higher-level competency exams, and demonstrating strong leadership abilities. This field offers a dynamic mix of shipboard and shore-based opportunities, giving ambitious professionals room for growth and specialization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the nautical science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Nautical Science, you need a solid grasp of navigation, maritime operations, and meteorology, usually supported by a degree or diploma and relevant marine certifications (such as STCW). Proficiency with navigational instruments, radar, GPS systems, and shipboard management systems is essential. Strong leadership, decisive problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing crew and responding to dynamic maritime conditions. These skills ensure safe, efficient vessel operations and contribute to career advancement in a demanding, fast-paced environment.

Is nautical science a good career?

Nautical science is a viable career for individuals interested in maritime operations, navigation, and ship management. It typically requires specialized education, certifications such as STCW, and involves working onboard ships for extended periods. The profession offers opportunities for advancement and travel but also demands physical endurance and adherence to safety protocols.

What can I do with a degree in nautical science?

A degree in nautical science prepares individuals for careers as ship officers, including roles such as deck officer, navigation officer, or marine engineer. Graduates can work on commercial ships, cruise liners, or offshore vessels, often requiring certification from maritime authorities and familiarity with navigation tools and safety protocols.

What jobs can you get with nautical science?

Nautical science graduates can pursue careers as deck officers, marine engineers, ship captains, or navigation officers on commercial ships, cruise liners, or offshore vessels. These roles typically require certifications such as STCW and involve skills in navigation, safety procedures, and vessel management.

What are popular job titles related to Nautical Science jobs in California?

For Nautical Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nautical Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Nautical Science jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Nautical Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,757 per year, or $23 per hour.

AIRFIELD MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST-DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY

Edwards, CA โ€ข On-site

$47K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Veteran's preference does not apply to DHA recruitment.
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for more information.
The primary purpose of this position is to evaluate the day to day airfield management operations and maintain situational awareness of airfield activities and keeps the Airfield Manager informed of any conditions that may affect the safety of the airfield.Qualifications:Experience requirements are described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Administrative and Management Positions
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study - accounting, business administration, business or commercial law, commerce, economics, engineering, finance, industrial management, statistics, traffic management, transportation, motor mechanics, nautical science, marine affairs, marine engineering, marine transportation, or other fields related to the position. For Marine Transportation Specialist positions, education obtained in a Federal, State, or other accredited Merchant Marine Academy is qualifying. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.

or

General Experience (for GS-5 positions): For positions in this series other than Marine Transportation, experience that provided a general knowledge and understanding of traffic or transportation programs or operations. For Marine Transportation positions, experience must have been related to determining the terms and conditions for shipping cargo, coordinating storage, scheduling and shipment of goods and ship logistic requirements, such as berths, bunkers, crane service, and computing costs for cargo shipment.
The ideal candidate for this role is a highly experienced and proactive Airfield Management Specialist with a proven track record of ensuring the safety, efficiency, and compliance of airfield operations. This individual is a decisive leader, capable of managing a team and making critical decisions in a fast-paced and often high-stress environment. With a comprehensive understanding of airfield regulations and procedures, this candidate is adept at identifying and mitigating risks, coordinating with multiple agencies, and ensuring the seamless flow of air traffic.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Practical knowledge of industry and AF airfield management operations practices, procedures and the established regulations, requirements and techniques related to the airfield management program.
2. Practical knowledge of airfields such as condition of runways, taxiways, aprons, operational status of airfield support facilities (airfield lighting, barriers, navigational aids, etc) and obstacles that are violations to airfield standards and safety issues that may restrict aircraft operations and issuance of NOTAMs.
3. Practical knowledge and understanding of airfield manuals, instructions and procedures to conduct airfield inspections.
4. Practical knowledge of aerial navigation and aviation techniques, flight operations, flight planning rules, FAA regulations, the international airway routes and structure, oceanic routes, controlled and special use airspace, flight characteristics systems of several types of aircraft (aircraft altitude/airspeed capabilities, aircraft systems malfunctions) knowledge of flight safety, knowledge of exercise and contingency operations.
5. Ability to act decisively in emergency situations.
6. Ability to communicate effectively and tactfully with military and civilians of all ranks.
7. Ability to operate various communications devices such as radio, desktop computer, intercoms, etc., and knowledge of procedures for message and report preparation and notification procedures.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:Employment Type: OTHER